Anker 40W 5-Port USB Charger Review

Ever notice that all USB chargers were not created equally? Like plugging the USB into the computer, some USB adapters charge way slower then the included charger. The new Anker 40W 5-port charger is a thing of beauty; it’s 5 USB ports charging 5 devices at full speed, safely.

Anker is using a technology they call PowerIQ, which “identifies your device and speaks with the language it needs for full speed charging.” It doesn’t matter if you’re plugging in an iPhone, iPad, Android, portable battery charger, bluetooth speaker, or headset. PowerIQ figures out what it is and how to charge it at maximum speed. Each device gets a max of 8 watts and 5 volts, which is more than enough for any device. The 40W 5-Port USB hub is a big upgrade from Ankers previous generation where there were specific Android, iPad, and iPhone ports.

Fast is great, but safe is more important. Anker claims to be using a lot of technology to ensure your devices safety. There’s port-level protection system that shuts it down if it detects overvoltage, overcurrent, overheating or short circuits.

The 5-port hub is a small box, about the size of a couple decks of cards. There’s a standard removable power plug that plugs into the wall. It’s a good looking device that will blend well with any Apple products. It’s a clean and glossy unibody plastic enclosure available in white or black.

Anker calls it the world’s most powerful 5-port USB charger, and it probably is. It’s great for keeping every kind of USB constantly plugged in for a quick charge of one or many devices. It’s super convenient to not worry about finding the charger that came with your iPad or iPhone or Android. Really, the only thing the Anker 5-port is missing (other than a better name) is a way to make it a more permanent solution, like a mounting system or stand. The Anker 5-Port USB Charger is currently on backorder from Amazon.com. It retails for $49.99, but prices that will likely fall under $30.